§ MR. SLOAN (Belfast, S.)To ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland of Ireland whether he is aware that in Rostrevor on Sunday, 12th July, an attack was made upon several houses, and windows were smashed; that a Union Jack was torn from Orange Hall, and that divine service had to be abandoned in the Methodist Church owing to the wrecking carried on; and whether, in view of information given to the police that such action was anticipated, and of the fact that most of it was done in their presence, he can state what action, if any, the Government intend taking in the matter.
(Answered by Mr. Atkinson.) The facts are stated with substantial accuracy. The police present on the occasion were unable to identify any of the offenders, the crowd being composed mainly of strangers. A police sergeant was informed of the intention to remove the flag some hours before it was taken down. His failure to report the matter to his superior officers will be investigated by the Inspector-General.